An Authors’ Night event featuring readings by several Buffalo area writers will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at the American Repertory Theater, 16 Linwood Ave., Buffalo. The event is presented by local publishing company No Frills Buffalo.

Michael Wojcicki, athletic director, physical education teacher and coach at Mary Queen of Angels Regional Catholic School in Cheektowaga, has been named the recipient of the annual Tim Russert/Sister Lucille Socciarelli/Father John Sturm Making a Difference Award. The honor, presented by the Diocese of Buffalo, will be awarded to “Coach Mike” at the 2014 Making a Difference Dinner taking place on Jan. 30 at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center.

The Making a Difference Dinner is a celebration of Catholic schools and an opportunity to honor those who serve Catholic school students in Western New York. Wojcicki was nominated for the award by Mary Queen of Angels Principal MaryAlice Bagwell.

Says Mortgage Tax Collections up 8.9% Over Same Period Last Year

Erie County, NY- Erie County Clerk Chris Jacobs announced local governments will soon receive their share of the Erie County Mortgage Tax collections based off of real estate transactions recorded in the Clerk’s Office.  The total to be distributed on November 15th is $8,623,740.49 and covers the six month period April 1, 2013-September 30, 2013.  This amount is 8.9% higher than the same period last year.

“Record low interest rates earlier this year fueled both refinancing and home purchases throughout Western New York.  This is a positive development for Erie County’s municipal governments since mortgage tax distributions are a major source of revenue for many of the County’s cities, towns and villages,” stated County Clerk Jacobs.